Clear Springs

Clear Springs

	Clear Springs
Location:	Mississippi
Nearest Town:	Bude
Directions to Trailhead:	From Baton Rouge Louisiana. Take hwy 19 north to the mississippi line where the road turns into hwy 33 continue on hwy 33 north until it comes to hwy 84/98 go east on 84/98 until you see the sign clear springs homochitto national forest recreation park.Take a right. Follow the road until you come to the check in facility pay your three dollars.You have arrived.
Trail Description:	The main trail is a ten mile loop.Ride it counter clockwise.There is also a five mile loop called mill branch trail.
Trail Length:	15 miles
Trail Type:	Singletrack
Skill Level:	Intermediate
Submitted By:	Cline

Bill P from Brandon, MS Date: June 7, 2003 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Still learning it Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Loved the trail! I thought it was well maintained compared to some 4 wheeling trails we've been on in other states. The Clear Springs turnoff is right at 20 miles east of Natchez, after you turn onto 84. This puts it about 38 miles west from Brookhaven. Watch for the brown Homochito/Clear Springs sign at that point or you'll drive right by it. I didn't see any other signs. Turn in and keep on that road and you'll come to the sign in, just after the trail head. There is a bike washing area (no one else mentioned, may be new) which was very handy since it was pretty muddy after some rain over the last few days. I only wish there was a map to tell us where the prescribed routes are, and length, if it is preferred that you go a certain way. I wasn't sure what trail this was that we were on, how long it would be or where it'd come out. There may be a map somewhere that I don't know about. Anyway, exploring is part of the fun. Someone else mentioned it being a little like NC. I'd agree that it is like some dirt trails in Uwharrie, NC but without rocky alternate trails. Most of MS is pretty flat, so it's nice to see something different in my own state. I've been looking forward to getting on the trail, and I'm very happy to report that it was much better than anticipated. Bridges, bike wash, nice hills, shady...I'm impressed. And worn out. Can't wait to do it again. "Thank you" to those that work on maintaining and developing the trail.	Overall Rating:

John Sita from New Orleans, LA Date: April 14, 2003 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Counter-clockwise. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Clear Springs has many switchbacks of the single-track trail that give nice panoramic views. It is beautiful riding and is quite hilly--in fact, it has steep hills for this far south. The riding is fairly technical and is easily rideable if you're in shape. Since the soil is sandy and many of the hills are steep, don't be embarrassed if you have to walk up some hills. The lower areas do flood after a heavy rain and the resulting washouts of the trail may require detours. This is probably the best riding of anywhere within 200 miles of New Orleans. It's fun to camp and ride for several days as Clear Springs has excellent full-service camping facilities, but they fill up quickly--especially on the weekends. MAKE SURE NOT TO WASH YOUR BIKE IN THE SHOWERS unless you want to bring down the wrath of the park ranger--trust me on this. If the full-service campground is full and you don't like primitive camping, in Bude (where you interchange from Highway 98 to 84), there is a hotel/gas station/restaurant called Nikki's that is clean, has good food, and is reasonable.	Overall Rating:

Don B from Natchez, MS Date: December 12, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Tally's clockwise for downhills, Mills Branch counter clockwise Other recommended trails in the same area: Vance trails , Liberty, great trail, not as difficult as Clear Springs by any means.
Review: My compliments to Shane and all volunteers. Tally's is very ridable, a few wet spots but not bad. No problem with trees down, we did the complete loop. Beautiful woods, ripping downhills, difficult to very difficult climbs, what else could you want? Mill's Branch is in great shape too. Just gotta keep riding it. Excellent camping facilities, bathrooms clean with showers. You definately should plan to ride these trails!!! Ps. If new to mtb. you should do the Mills Branch loop. Be prepared to push up some hills there too!	Overall Rating:

Scott from Vicksburg, MS Date: October 24, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: I rode the Tally's trail counter-clockwise. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: The Tally's trail is a great one. There are sections that need some trimming back of undergrowth but overall a great trail. There are some great downhills and plenty of uphill climbs. The roots add a bit of challenge on some of the steeper descents. One place to watch is where it has been logged, the trail follows the logging trail to the other side of the opening.	Overall Rating:

MDS from Spokane, Washington Date: October 15, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Same as above. Other recommended trails in the same area: Comite in Baton Rouge, Devil's Gultch in Wenatchee, WA, the Zipper in Spokane, WA, and the Vein in Nelson, BC.
Review: I rode the Mill Creek trail on Sunday and a portion of Tally's. This could be a great mountain bike trail for the Southern US but its current condition needs a lot of work. Tally's Trail was fair to good in condition depending on the section of trail. I saw that they were working on certain sections of the trail but its apparent that this forest is severely understaffed. As for Mill's Creek, well this is a trail that is seriously underutilized and the underuse certainly shows. It is overgrown in many spots, it needs some creek/slough bridges in a couple of areas built. The pathway in certain sections is almost impossible to determine. The trail system needs a lot more work from locals and staff plus it has to be ridden. You can have the greatest trail in the world but if no one rides it well then the trail is going to be overgrown no matter how much work these guys put into it. The city of Bude/McComb/Meadville should start hosting two or three major bicycle races here a year. This would help the trail out immensly plus it would help the local economy. Plus this place needs some Northshore type terrain created to really make Clear Creek an epic ride. Some teeter totters, skinny bridges over the creeks, and good ole steep drops would certainly make this a "destination".	Overall Rating:

John Hunter from Paerl River LA Date: July 14, 2002 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: all routs are nice. even the short lake loop is nice. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Buttery singletrack near the creeks with short and steep technical descents, at least for south Mississippi. There are many long ascents and descents with elevation gains of at least 300. almost all singletrack with roots substituting for rocks. best trails within 200 miles of my house.	Overall Rating:

shane kelly from meadville,ms. 39653 Date: July 13, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: CLOCK WISE ON TALLYS LOTS MORE DOWN HILLS AND YOUR PUCKER FACTOR WILL MULTIPLY. Other recommended trails in the same area: THE NEW RICHARDSON CREEK TRAIL 7-8 MILES LONG I FEEL THIS WILL BE ONE OF THE FINEST TRAILS IN THE SOUTH . HOPEFULLY WILL BE OPEN END OF AUG. OR FIRST PART OF SEPT.
Review: TALLYS TRAIL IS THE FIRST TRAIL ON CLEAR SPRINGS TRAIL SYSTEM. IT IS AROUND 10-11 YEARS OLD AND HAS SEEN ALOT OF RUBBER TIRES( THIS IS A GOOD THING ) I WORK ON THE HOMMOCHITTO NATIONAL FOREST AS A REC. TECH. AND I GUESS I AM TO BLAME FOR CERTAIN CONDITIONS OF THE TRAIL . JUST REMEMBER I AM THE ONLY PERSON TO WORK ON THE TRAILS( USFS) OTHER THAN THE VOLUTEERS ( THANKS GUYS AND GIRLS FOR ALL THE GREAT HELP WITH OUT YOU WE WOULD NOT HAVE A TRAIL TO RIDE YOU HAVE ALL DONE A WONDERFUL JOB.AS FAR AS THE GRASS GROWING UP WE HAVE HAD MORE RAIN THIS SUMMER THAN IN THE PAST 3 YEARS AND I CAN NOT KEEP UP WITH IT PLUS MY OTHER DUTIES ON THE FOREST, THE TREES FALL IN THE SAME CATAGORY, BUT THEY WILL BE REMOVED ALSO. WE HAVE SEVERAL WET SPOTS ON THE TRAIL , WE ARE PUTTING DOWN PERK STONES TO HELP WITH THIS WE HAVE ALREADY INSTALLED SEVERAL PALLETS OF THIS ON TALLYS TRAIL, AND MORE TO BE PUT DOWN ON MILL BRANCH( WE WELCOME ALL HELP ) I HAVE BEEN CUTTING THE THE GRASS ON MILL BRANCH UNTIL MY MOWER BROKE DOWN , BACK ON LINE CUTTING BY SUNDAY OR MONDAY. THE BURNNING THAT JOEY TALKED ABOUT ON MILL BRANCH HELPS KEEP WILDFIRES FROM DESTROYING ALL OF THE TREES AND WILDLIFE WE CALL THIS A CONTROLED BURN, YOU SHOULD SEE THIS ITS VERY COOL. IN ALL WE DO TRY HARD TO KEEP THE PUBLIC HAPPY ( MAN THIS IS HARD ). SOMEONE ONCE TOLD ME BEFORE I STARTED WORKING FOR THE FOREST AND WAS RIDING THE TRAILS EVERY OTHER DAY, IF YOU DONT LIKE RUTS AND ROOTS BUY A ROAD BIKE.	Overall Rating:

Joey from Louisiana Date: May 24, 2002 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: The best trail in this area by far is Lincoln Parish Park in Ruston, LA.
Review: I rode Talley's yesterday (11.5 miles) & Mills Branch today (5.0 miles). I hate to say it, but I was extremely disappointed. Talley's is a disaster. It is very grown up in many places & they have been logging a section around mile 4. Mill's Branch is grown up even more than Talley's. There are several trees down on both trails which make it unridable. A good portion of Mill's Branch has been recently burned which makes it look like Armageddon. I ride Lincoln Parish Park in Ruston, LA 2 to 3 times per week. It is a GREAT trail, well maintained. I think that one of the biggest problems with Clear Springs is that it is not ridden enough. If it was, the grass & weeds that make it where you can't see the trail would not be there. A couple of my riding partners went with me & overall we had a good time, with some serious trail maintenance & a lot of regular riding, this trail could be the awesome trail that I have read about it being 3 or 4 years ago. Until then, I would not waste my time unless I live VERY close by. Although I did not think much of the trails, the camping facilities were great!	Overall Rating:

Bart from Natchez Date: April 23, 2002 Trail Ridden: Once a week
Recommended Route: Clockwise on Talley's (11.5 miles)for speed...Counterclockwise on Talley's for challenge. Either way on Mill Branch (5.5 miles) is great for daily excercise. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: I have the privilege of living 30 mins. from this trail. I ride 3-4 times each week, early in the mornings on Mill Branch for daily training and the full Talley's loop on Saturday. I think this is a well maintained trail that gives challenges to riders of all levels. When I began I found it difficult to climb many of the hills...now there are few that I cannot negotiate, but after moving quickly through the trail and climbing them when tired, they are as much or more of a challenge. The rangers and volunteers work hard to maintain the bridges and the trails and I find them to be in great shape each time I ride. There are some new re-routes on the trail...one called the elevator...a challenge to climb...as well as some good fixes to some problem areas. An entirely new section is being created that will add another 5 miles on the east side of the trails...the bridge will be constructed in May...check with the Natchez Bike Shop for information on workdays! Bring your powerade/gatorade/accelerade in the summer...you'll need it to complete the whole trail! If you are a beginner, get a map from the rangers and take one section at a time and ride back on the dirt/paved roads. As you progress you may want to try the whole Mill Branch trail and then work your way up to the whole Talleys trail. You'll really be challenged to take both trails in one day...	Overall Rating:

Will from New Orleans Date: February 24, 2002 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: I just wanted to retract my previous review. I was way out of shape haven't ridden in a while. The Rangers and a lot of volunteers have done a lot of work on this trail. This trail is awesome and lots of fun, I highly recommend it. Beware though, it is very demanding, and bring lots of water. Check this trail out and have fun.	Overall Rating:

Will from New Orleans Date: December 7, 2001 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: Jackson.
Review: Nature has taken its toll on this trail. This was once a great trail. Too many roots to get any kind of speed. If you want a good workout, this is the place to go, but that's about all it is, a good workout. Not much fun anymore.	Overall Rating:

Curt from Meridian, MS Date: November 17, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: Whatever feels good for the blue diamond trail (aka the "mill branch trail"), but probably clockwise on the white diamond trail. Other recommended trails in the same area: It's not really in the "same" area, but LINCOLN PARISH PARK IN RUSTON, LA!!!!!
Review: Whew. Did both trails today for the first time and I must say that it certainly does live up to its reputation: tough climbs, steep, technical descents, breath-taking beauty, and mad fun. I'd say stick to the blue diamond trail if you are a beginner because it's killer and not too demanding. If you are experienced, however, ride 'em both, but be prepared for pain on those climbs if you are white diamond trail bound! And oh yeah, if you ride this thing in the summer, good luck because you will surely suffer. The ass-kickingest trail in Mississippi, hands down . . . it doesn't get much better than this in the deep south.	Overall Rating:

Darren from Lincoln, NE Date: July 25, 2001 Trail Ridden: Please Select
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: I-20 corridor trails between Shreveport and Ruston (5 different trails).
Review: This trail ROCKS! It's not really hard but it was challenging. I will ride it again when I'm in the area.	Overall Rating:

Steve from Kenner, LA Date: July 1, 2001 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area: Hooper Park, End of the lane(Kentwood, La)
Review: Rode this trail 6/28/01, the weather over the last month has taken its toll on this trail. There are alot of trees down and you will have to dismount several times. Still it is an excellent ride, and very demanding. The forest rangers are clearing the trail of trees but they have alot to go. some parts ore overgrown due to the lask of riders. A third trail is in the works but doen't know when it will be ready. This trail is a reality check for those riders in the south, who doen't have real mountains to ride on. Hope it is in better condition next time, because this trail is one of the best in the south and I would hate to see it detriarate any more.	Overall Rating:

stumonky from Thibodaux, LA Date: May 21, 2001 Trail Ridden: Ridden Once
Recommended Route: We rode counter-clockwise. Although next time I think we'll go clockwise. Other recommended trails in the same area: Hooper, Bethel
Review: This trail will whip the average joe's ass! It was a lot of fun but it was very demanding. We rode yesterday 5/20/01 - i'd say the temp was close to 90. Not many of us had water by the end (100oz is not enough!). The uphills are demanding at times but some of the downhills make it all worth it. Especially the one near the bus stop benches. If you come off of HWY 33 stop at the BP gas station (it's the only thing out there). Highly recommend this for all levels. Just because we got our asses kicked doesn't mean we won't return! Go with a group and hope they bike problems so you can rest. The scenery is outstanding!	Overall Rating:

Jason Kelley from Baton Rouge Date: February 20, 2001 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Ride the 10.5 mile trail clockwise Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This trail is tough at times, but has its fast parts. If you park at the primitive campgrounds (that will be on your right when entering clear springs)drive all the way to the back and there is a trailhead. Take a right on the trail and bear it out until you reach the road. Then, put on your eye goggles because the next section after you cross the road is very fast. Its fast but has its technical parts, indeed you will have a feeling of accomplishment after you ride the whole thing. Never rode the 5 mile loop, but plan to when I up there next.	Overall Rating:

Bedrock from Gainesville, FL Date: February 20, 2001 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: I've only done the old 10? mile loop. Haven't tried the new stuff though I'm sure its just as good. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: I've been riding this trail regularly since '95 and it is by far the best trail that I have ever done. I've ridden out west in Colorado (Air Force Academy campus),quarries in Central Florida (Hardrock, Santos), and Georgia (Macon area). I was impressed that Mountain Bike magazine rated this in their top 30 because it is still relatively unknown outside of the area. The only reasons it probably didn't get in the top 5 is that it doesn't really qualify as 'epic' in length, though it is plenty long enough for a full day of riding, and the heat in the summer (it is shaded all of the way though)--you definitely will put a camelbak to good use here. It is definitely out in BFE, but that adds great advantages and character to the place. Go on a weekday and you will not ever see another soul on the trail (maybe one) and can enjoy the solitude of the truly beautiful forest that this trail goes through. There are difficult climbs that will challenge the expert and nice, very fast single track for the beginner/intermediate. Great campground that is frequented by friendly locals, and has a nice bathroom with 'free' hot showers (there is a $3 entrance fee). The forest service and the local MTB clubs do a great job of maintenance, better than most of the pay-per-ride places that I go to in Florida. Should definitely be on the 'to do' list of every Southerner.	Overall Rating:

Eric from Hattiesburg Date: October 5, 2000 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: all of it!!! Other recommended trails in the same area: it is great!!
Review: This trail is the is among the top 5 i have road. I have road all out west and this trail is mad! i love it and would recomend it to anyone thinking of taking a long trip away from the south to ride, to stay at home and ride this!	Overall Rating:

john from hattiesburg Date: September 23, 2000 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: take 84 look for clear springs recreation site turn and park at trailhead on left. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: once again i got lost. i only saw 2 paper trail signs on many of the verious trails there. these trails were tough. steep inclines, rooted. They do a pretty good job of keeping the trails clean from limbs. Proceed with caution the first couple times through. this trail is rough, tough, located on the bluffs. It was a good trail with showers! It is a bit of a drive for me but if I lived within a 1 hour radius i would be all over this trail.	Overall Rating:

Diamond from Baton Rouge' La Date: October 25, 1999 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: For the best ride, start in the parking lot nearest the lake. Climb thr asphalt hill to the trail head. Ride the Clear Springs Trail (short and long loops), the Mill Branch Trail, and finish with the Lake Loop. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Graet singletrack for about 17 miles. No rocks or gravel, but the sand is deep in a few spots. The vast majority of this trail is fast hard-pack and is broken up only by much more steep and long climbs than you would expect to find in Mississippi. The short loop of the Clear Springs Trail is pretty togh in spots, but is well worth it. The long loop(the old White Diamond Trail)is fast and steep. The Mill Branch Trail is pure heaven to ride. It was actually cut for MTB and it shows. Showers, toilets, potable water, security, low cost usage, and great scenery. The only reason I can't give this trail system a 5 is that I've been in real mountains and you know what that means!	Overall Rating:

jeffs from oregon Date: September 1, 1999 Trail Ridden: Please Select
Recommended Route: The 12 miler, then do the fiver for desert! Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This trail has kinda remote access, but it is a blast to ride. Locals are very proud of their home trail and they should be. This trail has a bit of everything from granny climbs to tight singletrack and fun descents. Have ridden everywhere and it doesnt get much better than this. Folks who jump in the car and drive to Bham (bump trail) or NC (tsali) should put this trail on your road trip calendar. If you are anti-social like me youwill love the fact that this place is not crowded at all. a few tips: bring more food &water than you will need $3 exact change day use fee a.m. ride in the summer (brutal heat) camp in the NF & make a weekend of it	Overall Rating:

Andrew Crain from Tuscaloosa, AL Date: May 3, 1999 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Both ways Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This is a review of the 5 mile loop. It's a great ride. The woods are more open that the large trail, and there is more undergrowth. It's very scenic. The 5 mile loop is not as difficult as the larger trail, but it has some fun downhills and a few short-steep climbs. When I ride this trail, I usually ride it clockwise first, and then turn around and do it the other way. They are planning a third trail at the park, but it's probably a year or so away. However, the state is building a large lake in Franklin County (for fishing/skiing), and it is supposedly going to have over twenty miles of MTB trails. Franklin County may become the mecca in MS for riding.	Overall Rating:

alan from jackson Date: March 16, 1999 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Ride the 12 mile only if you are experienced...the 6 mile is great... Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: I try to ride this trail at least twice a month...ride you home trail then come to Bude for a humbling ride...its definately worth the trip no matter how far you have to drive... Great climbs...great downhill runs...great jumps...tight single-track which can get rough at times...be prepared with water, energy bars, and stamina... one of the best in the south...	Overall Rating:

Andrew Crain from Tuscaloosa, Alabama Date: February 17, 1999 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: I am a local who has moved away, but I always try to ride the trail when I visit my parents. It is better if ridden counterclockwise. There are many great climbs, and there are many technical sections to negotiate as well. The trail has good bridges maintained by the Forest Service and a club in Natchez, MS. Also, a group of local riders help maintain the trials. So the trial is usually in great shape. The new 5 mile loop is somewhat easier than the 11 mile loop, but it too has its difficult parts. Overall, it's a great ride.	Overall Rating:

bigcalyx from Slidell Date: November 1, 1998 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: I usually ride clockwise, the climbs are a little tougher Other recommended trails in the same area: do another loop
Review: this is a great trail, I haven't ridden the 5 mi. loop yet but from what I hear it is cool. definitely merits one of those new techno-fad suspension doodads, or some line choice on the downhills. Only ride in the fall, winter, or 6 a.m. in the summer.	Overall Rating:

Rob from Mississippi Date: October 26, 1998 Trail Ridden: Every few months
Recommended Route: Clockwise is better, but shake up your life and do it both ways on the main loop. Doesn't matter on the Mill loop. Watch out for the goop in the one little creek crossing, it doesn't wash off. Dismount and jump over. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: Good technical climbs, you'll give granny a workout. Screamin' but short downhills. Cool bridges, woods. Ride it with a buddy who snaps chains so you can take it in while he fixes his bike. Bad news in summer heat, great in fall and winter. Good camping facilites, but be ready to hunt for firewood -- it's pretty well scratched over. Probabably the best trail you'll find in Mississippi.	Overall Rating:

Robert from Hammond Date: October 20, 1998 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: clock wise for both loops. This course is very abusive. PERIOD. Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: October 20, 1998	Overall Rating:

Cline from Baton Rouge Louisiana Date: October 14, 1998 Trail Ridden: Once a month
Recommended Route: Ride the ten mile loop Clockwise. ( sorry i wrote counter clockwise on the main page ) More longer down hills . Mill branch five mile trail you can ride it either way Other recommended trails in the same area:
Review: This is a great place to ride.It has fast down hills.Granny gear climbs.It has full camping facilities. Hot showers,paved parking.There is a three dollar fee for day use.	Overall Rating: